Nikon Z6 review. Detailed, hands-on, not sponsored.
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- čas přidán 27. 02. 2019
- A detailed, hands-on review of the Nikon Z6.
Warning: Long Video. Use the menu below to navigate to sections of interest.
Error: As Steven points out below, at 20:30 I mention that 120 and slow mo modes force a DX crop. While that's true of the Z7, it's not on the Z6.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Camera and lens kit basics 1:20
Fit and controls 2:02
New function key placement 2:44
Touch screen 3:17
XQD cards, battery door 4:08
Ports 4:28
Bluetooth and Snapbridge 5:05
Shutter and silent 5:25
JPEG, RAW, Image size 6:12
Shooting, exposure settings 6:50
ISO and low light 7:40, 9:45
Dynamic Range 10:15
Focussing 11:00
Object tracking 12:14
Focus bracket 13:27
White balance, colour profiles 14:10
Stabilization (IBIS) 15:34
Drives modes and burst 16:21
Multi exposure (easter egg) 17:46
Interval and TimeLapse video 18:27
Video 19:09
HDMI output, NLog 22:05
Video stabilization 24:09
Rolling shutter 24:30
Low light video 24:53
Stills in video mode 25:35
Review and retouch 26:45
Menu comments 27:40
Summary 28:38
#NOTSPONSORED
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I have not received compensation in exchange for posting this review.
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AFFILIATE LINKS
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I will receive a small commission if you purchase:
Nikon Z6 kit with 24-70 bhpho.to/2G1DQLh
Nikon Z6 body bhpho.to/2TlcFBp
Nikkor 35mm Z lens bhpho.to/2FMd7Di
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FLICKR
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Review the EXIF data of images used in the review: www.flickr.com/photos/maartec...
CREDITS
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Recorded in Hawaii, USA and Toronto, Canada.
ABOUT ME
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I do read and respond to all comments, which are moderated. If you leave a relevant question or civil comment without links (which are filtered by youtube) it will be posted, I will reply.
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WEBSITE/BLOG: maartech.com
CONTACT: maartendotheilbronatgmaildotcom
DISCLOSURE
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I am not sponsored or compensated by any manufacturer, I have not accepted payment to review this or any product. Even if a product was provided at no cost to me, I don’t allow the provider to review the script or video prior to posting.
I am compensated by Google Adwords, who place videos before and after my videos. I receive a small commission from B&H and Amazon if you purchase using the affiliate links.
Please do not allow this to influence your purchase decision. Should you wish to support me, please use the links above.
I encourage you to visit and support your local photo/video retailer. - Věda a technologie
Great and informative review and very helpful in getting started using this powerhouse camera. At 20:30 you state that shooting in HD, the 120 and slo-mo modes force the DX crop yet, on my Z6 Firmware 1.01, this doesn't appear to happen, I see no crop in either the viewfinder or the screen when selecting those frame rates , perhaps I am doing something incorrect ( entirely possible lol )
I had to go back and check - but you're right. I should have double checked. That applies only to the Z7, not the Z6 - sorry about the confusion.
Maarten Heilbron Thanks for the clarification, this Z6 continues to impress me with its capabilities. I come from the pro audio world and had heard several reviews about the poor Z series audio preamps as well but, after several sessions with this Z6, I can say it's considerably better than the Canon 70D I had before this. Pleasantly surprised.
I'm afraid the pre-amps in all cameras leave a lot to be desired. If you're serious about audio, and are doing more than just recording a single voice, the investment in a small mixer (like Tascam DR-70D) and some reasonable quality mics makes an excellent investment.
Great Review - thanks for the effort. Very detailed, hands-on, no speculations. Appreciated!
Hey, that's kind of you to say, thanks for commenting.
Hi Maarten, another of your fabulously detailed, informative, yet very watchable reviews.
They really are like the camera's manual, in an audio-visual format, and are well worth repeat viewing for either new owners or prospective buyers.
I'm always pleased to know that my videos provide useful information for my viewers - thanks for the kind words.
Thanks for the very informative review. One of the most detailed I have seen. I just purchased this camera and I am already learning alot just from your video. Thanks
It is always great to hear that my videos are useful and appreciated. Thanks for your kind words.
Super clear, informative and structural review. Thank you Maarten!
A pleasure to read your kind words, thanks.
You sir, are the MVP of digital photography reviews! If ever it was possible, i’d simply ask every other CZcams reviewer to learn from you! What an excellent review!! Just going through 30 mins here gave me more information than other dramatic and over exaggerating CZcams videos. Thank you so much :)
It was a pleasure to read your kind words, thanks for taking the time to comment. It's nice to know my videos are appreciated.
Thank you, Maarten. Very informative review. You show many interesting detail in Nikon Z6 working
Thanks for your kind words, they are appreciated.
Thank a million Maarten for this video. I feel like I am back on in my old school when I watch your video. Very clear, easy and honest. No commercial. I am debating between D850/Z6/Z7 on top of my D810 and D750 and I was searching on youtube for z6 videos and found you. very happy to see your channel. thanks
Thanks, always appreciate the views and the kind words.
this is the best Z6 review I have seen by now. Thanks for sharing this video sir.
That's very kind of you to say, thanks, appreciated.
Really thorough review. I’ve saved your video after watching it the first time through to go step by step through it with my camera in hand.
It's always a pleasure to hear that my videos are useful and appreciated.
LOVE THIS VIDEO! Thanks for this in depth review.
That's so kind of you to say, thanks for taking the time to comment, appreciated.
You make the best in-depth reviews.
That's very kind, thanks for commenting.
First of all, Merry Christmas to you Maarten, this is the most detailed review of the camera for new owners. Absolutely excellent in every way. You kept it to the point you showed what the camera could do with both photos and video and you went into the menus of both photo and video. A person could literally pull out their camera and follow along.
You stated the things that you both liked and didn’t, but you were respectful and not irresponsible. There are very few people with you talent and wisdom on CZcams. Guys like you and Dustin Abbott are the gold standard, along with Michael the Maven. The second tier do a decent job but get the facts wrong and don’t do corrections to state so and are in a hurry to do their reviews, which feel both rushed and incomplete. The Third tier are quickly going over the camera, missing important facts and are trying to sell you something or trying to tell you that they are not sponsored and why everyone else is a shill.
This group also has the tendency to get lost in the weeds of photography, while the skill is lost. Maybe it’s your age, wisdom or even upbringing, but you don’t waste time trying to denigrate others, you just concentrate on the matter at hand, like the others I mentioned. Keep doing what you do the way that you are doing it Maarten because you and a few others are a cut above what ever else is out there. Happy New Year!!!
Thanks for your kind wishes and words. It was a great pleasure to read your detailed note - thank you very much. Best wishes to you and those close to you.
Hi Maarten nice review of the Nikon Z6, Thank you
1 Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.
Thank you for providing the menu times. Really like your use of dolls etc to demonstrate focus etc.
Thanks for the kind words, appreciated. I do my best to provide as much visual detail and demonstration as I can.
Fantastic, this was very informative and helpful, just got the Z6 today.
Always nice to know my videos are helpful and appreicated, thanks.
I like you review videos, very trustworthy. Lots of reviews online and partial in someway, but you just speak as a photographer, with an honest opinion.
I appreciate that! So glad that my approach resonates with you, thanks for the kind words.
thanks for the detailed review! i am looking at making the move from a d5000 to the z6 and hopefully retain some of my existing glass. subscribed!
I appreciate your kind words, thanks very much.
Always my favorite photography channel and now at my favorite vacation destination!
A pleasure to read your kind words, thanks, appreciated.
Thank you for the review, the shot 24 minutes in with the candle convinced me to get the camera
Understood, glad that I provide the information you need to make a decision. Thanks for your kind words.
Very helpful as I move towards purchasing the Z6. Thank you.
It always pleases me to know my videos are helpful, thanks.
A really solid, no nonsense, detailed introduction to the camera, good job Maarten. I'm still torn between the Nikon Z6 and Sony A7III, hopefully after the next firmware update i can decide.
Thanks for the kind words. Yes, I too am anxiously awaiting the update to see how well it works.
You're so knowledgeable, I love your review.
That's very kind of you to say, thanks!
Going to make my serious move next month from Nikon D60 (which served and still serves me very well) to Nikon Z6. Your review is great and helps a lot. Thank you very much.
Always nice to hear my videos are useful and appreciated, thanks for the kind words.
Your reviews blow me away 👍🏼👍🏼 I’m getting mirrorless envy so hopefully my bank balance looks better than I remember it being 😟
Thanks, i appreciate the kind words.
Another very helpful video from you Maarten, really appreciate this, thank you. A real blast from the past to see the Nikonos V, 1984 vintage I believe. Wouldn't it be great if Nikon released an underwater specific Digital interchangeable lens mirrorless camera or a UDILMC for short, lol. I hope you had a fine time in Hawaii.
We did have a fine time, thanks, I appreciate your kind words.
I bought a Z6 a few weeks after watching that particular video... And I don't regret it ! Thanks for the impressive good job ;-)
I appreciate your kind words, thanks for taking the time to comment.
Your knowledge of these camera systems is so incredibly detailed that other reviews pale in comparison. Thank you!
Glad you like them! Thanks for your very kind words.
@@MaartenHeilbron
Yes! Was really fascinated one of your videos I saw earlier, explaining the Z focus system. By the way, near the end of this video that very snazzy camera strap you’re wearing reminded me that it is possible to get something more comfortable than the thin strap that comes with the camera. I know you’re not sponsored but, would you happen to be able to tell me the maker of that model-or is it something homemade?
@@warlordpriest1 That strap is from Capturing Couture. I have no affiliate relationship with them.
@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you!
hi Maarten, nice review, i love your content and how you moderate the reviews by always reminding that it's your subjective opinion.
At 12:45 you said that the focus is not fast even if you changed the a3 setting to quick, in my knowledge that setting only affects how much time the camera keeps trying to refocus an old object that disappeared from the focus.
For example in sports if you keep the shutter trigger half pressed but you change the subject it will auto-focus quickly to the new subject "forgetting" the old one
Thanks for your kind words. Yes, that's my interpretation as well, sorry I didn't explain that well.
Very helpful video! I subscribed. I am trying to decide between the Z6 and the Fuji XT-3.
Always nice to know that viewers find my work helpful, thanks for commenting.
Awesome review! Super detailed and easy to listen to
Glad you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to comment.
An immensely useful and truly excellent review.
Glad it was helpful! A pleasure to read your kind words.
Thanks for the comprehensive review, Maarten. I enjoy your reviews because they lack the bias that so many others just can't seem to omit from theirs. You feel no need to slam Nikon for a product shortcoming, and you include good tips and observations that can prove useful to us. Keep up the great work!
I do my best to provide an honest opinion, demonstrating the functionality so that you can decide how the features would work for you. Thanks for the kind words.
Thank you for taking the time to produce such a comprehensive and informative video. Very helpful. I have a canon 800D (APS-C) and am looking to make the jump to full frame, unfortunately I’m stuck in a loop of fear of ‘choosing the wrong system’. I think the problem arises from needing the camera to do several things, namely; general photography, landscape photography, static video and dynamic video. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.
While they might all be marginally better than your current camera, I'm not sure that the upgrade is worth the cost. They all (Sony, Nikon - haven't yet reviewed Panasonic (in progress) or Canon) but I'd be pretty sure they're all more than capable for all of those. Sony/Panasonic might offer slightly better video features.
This video is a perfect example of one should spend their time with the camera before posting a review. Not a single second wasted. Thumbs Up! Just got my new Z6, and would like to come back watch it again if I need more references.
Thank you for your kind words, appreciated.
Good video.
I admire your patience in going through all of the menus and showing every setting in the video. I must say that I have had specific Nikon cameras for several years and I am still learning new things about the cameras and their individual features/modes/facilities !!
One final point. I get the feeling that Nikon has made mirrorless cameras which are the equivalent of their existing full-frame DSLR line-up. IE The Z6 is equivalent to the D750, Z7 is D850.
So this may mean that a mirrorless equivalent of the D5 is soon for release ???
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. I enjoy going through the whole kit - just to see how it all works. I'm not sure what they're up to next in the Z space. First, hopefully more lenses. But a more robust body would be a good add to the lineup.
@@MaartenHeilbron - Yes , you are right in that Nikon do need to add more lenses to the Z series line-up. I have heard about a 58mm F0.95 lens in 2020, plus various other lenses.
Fingers crossed for these !!
Equally, if the Z6 is the equivalent of the D750 and the Z7 being the equivalent of the D850, will Nikon release a stripped-down equivalent of the D610 ??
A full-frame mirrorless camera with a price of say $1000 - $1200 would certainly be a very competitive camera in-terms of price.
Yes, let's see what Nikon decides to do.
@@MaartenHeilbron Hi Maarten, when you say a more robust body, are you referring to build quality?
Edit: Excellent review!
@@ryancampbell1151 Thanks for the kind words. Yes build quality and durability.
Hi Maarten. As of yesterday I'm a mirrorless user and proud owner of the Nikon Z6II. I still have lots to learn. Thanks for the help.
Great to hear about your gear upgrade - thanks for letting me know! Hopefully my videos are providing assistance - and please do let me know if you have suggestions for topics.
Great review. Crisp and clear and well thought. It's good Sony has some real competition.
Thanks, I appreciate your kind words.
Perfect review - as always
Thank you, I appreciate the kind words.
Brilliantly done, thank you so much. Hope to buy one soon.
Thanks, a pleasure to read your kind words.
As it happened years ago when I bought the D7200 after watching your review, I just bought an used Z6 and I'm here trying to learn as much as possible. Yes, in 2023. Awesome camera.
Thanks for sharing, I appreciate your kind words.
One of the detailed description about the Nikon z6 available.....just perfect...
Thank you very much. Always nice to know my content is appreciated.
Detailed and informative as always Maarten. May I ask if you will be reviewing/testing the Canon EOS R camera in the near future?
Thanks, it's always a pleasure to read you kind words. I certainly hope to, but a change at Canon Canada is complicating things.
Another fantastic video as always. I never buy any camera unless you have made a review on it Maarten.
Have you used the new canon eps rp? Which would you buy out of the two?
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words, and your confidence. Not yet, but hope too soon. Canon Canada hasn't given me a date yet.
Very helpful as I get ready to set up my Z6. Thanks.
Great to hear! Always nice to know my videos are useful.
Really excellent review, thanks.
It was nice to read your kind words, thanks.
Really nice clean review! Cheers!
I appreciate your kind words, thanks!
Great video without rush, nice details. Greetings.
Thanks, viewers often ask me to slow down - always nice to hear from a viewer who appreciates my pace. And thanks for your kind words, appreciated.
I was greatly influenced by your review of the Nikon D780. After many months of mulling over, I purchased a good-quality used D780 and I have never regretted this.
Following on from this video (which has also been very useful and informative) I purchased a good quality used Nikon Z6 II.
As with your Nikon D780 video, your Z6 video has been spot-on. (NB I purchased the Z6 II for the improved dual-processors , twin card-slots and overall improvements).
Either way, your videos have been very useful and I am enjoying shooting both stills and video with my D780 and Z6 II.
Here's to the day when lots of good-quality Nikon Z9 cameras are available to purchase !!
It's always nice to know that viewers feel my videos have been a helpful resource. Thanks for taking the time to post your kind comments.
Great review. Love your style.
Thanks, always appreciate your kind words.
thank you Maarten for your hard work!
I appreciate the kind words, thanks.
The tip about using the control ring for EV was a revelation! Brilliant! Thank you, Maarten.
Thanks, always nice to hear I've helped you improve your workflow.
What's EV and what's the control ring ???
@@jeromeThailande Try watching the video for clues.
@@MaartenHeilbron I did !!!, But I know I have to watch it 100 times to understand half of it
@@jeromeThailande Feel free to watch another 100 times to get all of it.
The flat profile is very useful for photo combined with the contrast and sharpening down 1 or 2 notches because this combination delivers such a jpeg exposure (histogram and exposure is measured on jpeg only!) to give the optimal raw file for recovering shadows and highlights in post-processing (aka "single shot HDR"). The penalty for that is photos at the back of the screen that will look very boring.
Thanks for adding these useful notes.
thank ou for the time you spent on this video and your dedication.
It’s always my pleasure.
Great and super informative review! Thank you..
I dont see any electronic level on the screen BTW..
And how do you compare the lens, esp 35/1.8, to R35/1.8 and FE35.. Thank u
Thanks for your kind words, appreciated. I didn't see one either. I haven't had the chance to compare those lenses ... but doing a Z lens review is on my to-do list.
Excelente Review!!! In some short time I´ll be getting a Z6. And then some FF glasses, in crop mode how much smallers are the photos using dx lenses like Sigma 18-35 and 50-100? How you think they will work for cropped video? Thanks Maarten!!
Thanks for your kind words. I didn't get a chance to try that, so can't really comment. I suppose that it's the equivalent to switching to DX mode, which is fine for video (as the 8Mp resolution of 4K video is still much less than the sensor's resolution).
Thanks for the thorough review. Have you noticed any latency when using the HDMI out to an external recorder or monitor?
I have not, but there will be a latency between realtime and what you see on the LCD, the HDMI will be the same.
Wonderful as always! So, I was wondering, in your opinion, do you think the chatter about focus "problems" in the Z series are overblown? I'd love to pick one up this summer, but I'm wary of going from sure and accurate focus on a D850 to something less reliable. Any thoughts?
I do think they're exaggerated, although I can't judge for your needs and experience.
I've always loved your unique stye of review so I'm very happy to see you do this. I have a D750 but since I bought the Fuji X-H1 a year ago the D750 has been unused. That fills me with sadness because I enjoy using Nikon and the glass I invested in. I've been considering trading in my D750 (and D7200) to help fund the Z6. As much as I liked using them I love the convenience of mirrorless and now Nikon have given us an offering. I think I've just made my mind up 😉
Thanks for the kind words. I'm not sure I would have been so quick to switch - but I can appreciate that you are happy with the X-H1. And I'm not sure about going from the X-H1 to the Z6, particularly if you shoot video. The X-H1 provides better video than the Z6/7. For stills, it's a bit of a toss up, unless you desperately need full frame, or are anxious to return to the Nikon FanClub.
Maarten Heilbron I won’t ever be losing my X-H1, I love using that camera. My plan is to fund the Z6 by selling my D750 and D7200. I already gathered all the Nikon glass I need over the years so I’m really just planning to keep both systems but be totally mirrorless 🙂
Understood, thanks for adding this detail.
wow a super clean, clear presentation.
Thank you - it was a pleasure to read your kind words.
What a great resource. Thank you! One small nit, what you refer to as "back focus" is usually referred to as "back BUTTON focus" . Back focus is used to describe a focus error. Again, great work!
Are you being a little overly pedantic? You seem to have understood exactly what I meant, and you must certainly have heard many other photographers refer to this technique with the same term. However, I do appreciate that you concluded your remarks with kind words, thanks.
I had no intent to be or come across as pedantic. My apologies if I did. Your review IS great and my concern was having those new to nikons and/or modern DSLRs/ not get confused. Your videos have been of immense help as I have set up and worked with my Z6. Cheers.
@@nicksanyal2144 Thanks, I appreciate the clarification, and your kind words. There are many terms that I wish would be used precisely and with regard to their original intent. Sadly, that is not the world we live in. As the title of a new book says "Because Internet".
Hi Maarten, great review as always! I noticed skipped frames in the video segment ( Dancers on stage, the dummy models, the sea). Is that the case or are my eyes playing a trick :)
That might be your eyes or your internet connection. All fine here.
Thanks for the great review Maarten. From the perspective of a hybrid shooter, in your opinion, which is the better casual camera? Nikon Z6 or the Sony A7 III, especially in light of the new Tamron 2.8 lenses?
For photography, they're both nice choices - but that eye focus on the Sony is unbeatable (and the Sony seems to be a better deal). Nikon has promised eye autofocus, so that might change the balance - I'm waiting to see how it's implemented. For video, I'd prefer the slightly more full featured Sony, although neither have the video features of the Fujifilm X-T3.
Hi Maarten - Hope your well under such times, I just bought a Z6 thanks your incredible channel - I just have a question that's perplexing me - In video mode can you see how much space (time) is on the card rather than than the 30min countdown?
Thanks for the kind words and wishes - yes, all is well, but the circumstances have us all a little bit rattled.
I have not found a way to do that.
Great video, thanks! I'm still undecided as to which of the Zs I will buy.
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.
I had both, getting the Z7 and after evaluating my needs and the camera I decided the small file size and better low light performance of the 24mpx would be the better travel and casual shooting camera since I my primary camera is a D850 plus D800 backup. After 10 days I arranged for the dealer to trade the Z7 for 6, and take the difference in price in the 35mm S lens and 50mm S lens for a smaller travel kit that would fit the small 24-70 f/4 S lens I got as a kit with the Z7 and FTZ. That as background, do as I did, a bit late, evaluate what you need instead of what you might want. Do you shoot large format architecture, studio, commercial, fashion etc or need to crop a lot such having only a 300 mm lens and your birds in flight need 600mm the Z7 is your camera. If on the other hand you shoot in darker scenes, do portraiture for normal size prints, shoot weddings, display on social media or online galleries or primarily shoot video, the Z6 is a great choice. For low light, consider that the Z6 beats the D5 in noise, color and detail up to 102,000 ISO!! So it is a perfect camera from general photography in uncontrolled lighting conditions. If you don't have a good mid zoom, get the kit with 24-70, it is a superb lens and in the kit it is only $600. The 50mm 1.8 is $150 less and is the sharpest 50 on the planet.
I find I shoot a lot more for pleasure now, most of my frames in the last 2 months have been with the Z6...love it, since it brings back the fun of casual shooting and serious quality when needed. It stays with me most of the time and more and more of my studio portrait shots are being done with the Z6. Wait until you see how easy and enjoyable MF lenses are with the excellent Focus Peaking function.
I'm thankful for your detailed comments and experienced insight, appreciated.
@@stanspb763 Thank you. I shoot mainly landscapes and macro, but not for financial gain. I don't print large so I guess the Z6 kit will suffice and I can put the difference towards the 14-30 f/4 in addition to the 24-70 f/4.
Great Review Maarten
Thanks, always nice to know viewers appreciate my work.
I have bought the Z6 and watching your reviews has help me a lot , settings for photo and video have become a lot easier and quicker, thank you sr. Maarten
It’s always nice to know that my videos are useful and appreciated, thanks!
It isn't a coincidence that after having (only) read the word for over 30 years, you Maarten, one of my few favorite photography reviewers, are the first person ever that I hear pronounce the word 'plethora'.
Thanks for the kind words. I didn't realize that proper pronunciation of that (or any other words) was a characteristic of mine.
@@MaartenHeilbron Your eye for detail throughout is highly appreciated.
@@1arjen8 Always nice to read kind words from my viewers.
Great comprehensive review. Quick question though, i have owned the Z6 before, an just recently upgraded to the Z7. And i'm noticing that although the Z7 obviously gives me a much larger zoomable file, the color noise and grain is much more noticeable at ISO 3000 and above, than on the Z6. I mean, i was able to shoot much sharper and relatively noise free pictures at ISO 10,000 with the Z6. When in comparison, ISO 8000 and beyond on the Z7 are useless to me. Is that because i'm just a novice? or maybe the Z6 has better low light performance (cleaner images) than the Z7? Reason i ask is because i'm still on time to switch back to the Z6, and whenever a larger image is required, then use my D850. Thanks in advance!
Thanks, always nice to hear from viewers who appreciate my work.
A lower resolution on the same size sensor means larger pixels, which can capture more light, so what you're seeing is absolutely correct. The Z7 needs more light to provide a quality image.
Another superb review, Maarten. So cogent and thoughtful.
Here's a loaded question for you: As the EOS RP w/ 24-105L F4 and Z6 with Nikkor S 24-70 F4 are just about the same price (B&H) now - which would you prefer to own?!
Thank you!
I'd prefer the Z6, primarily as I like Nikon's video features better.
@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks, Maarten. I'm currently experimenting with both. I shoot an E-M1II and a D500. So the Nikon feels more familiar to me right off. I have to say that Canon 24-105 F4 L is a beauty! One of my more surprising moments was seeing just how well those E-M1II 4/3 images compare to both the FF shooters. There's a story in itself. Size/Weight/IQ/Diminishing Returns/Wants/Needs...
Take care and keep up the fine work!
Thanks for the kind words.
Would this be a good addition to the D850? I love my D850 but would like a smaller camera for certain occasions as well as I’m curious about Mirrorless.
Yes, I in that case, I think it would.
Maarten, is it possible to playback the 120 FPS video in slowmotion on the z6 's screen?
No, it's not.
Great Review and thank you for sharing really helped me make my decision on my next Camera just ordered the A6 Bundle Can's wait
It's always nice to hear that I've helped with my videos, thanks for taking the time to comment.
Wow, great work. Thank you.
Very kind, thanks for commenting.
Hi Maarten, I use AE-L button a lot to lock exposure in DSLR. Z6 now only has AF-L button. Does Nikon suggest different shooting process? Thanks.
I thought I mentioned this in the video - just press the joystick to lock exposure.
Hey buddy
Is it weird that I could see 13 stops when you switched to N-Log (Not the 11 you say)
I have a 2K Gsynk 144 htz ASUS 27" monitor, Maybe that's why?
Another great video
Regards, Rick
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words, and it's always nice to see your avatar in the comments. I was looking at a waveform monitor, there are 12 rectangles visible above the noise floor - that's 11 stops of range.
nice video, but what is the compatibility like with Nikon's Full frame lens line-up is a mount adaptor required and how is it for auto focus?
Thanks for the kind words. It's suitable, but not as good as the native lenses.
Thank you for this detailed review. Just FYI, the Flickr url in the comment section is for the Z7 album.
Thanks for the kind words. Sorry about that, I've corrected it now.
Any idea why my HDR option is darkened out? Can’t seem to figure out what’s preventing it from being selectable.
I think it may be RAW, but if not, try resetting the photo settings, that usually does it.
Can you help me explaining how to set Histogram in Nikon Z6 camera
Maybe this helps: czcams.com/video/pv0NwzLPBnQ/video.html
Among the many problems I have with this thing ,apart from buttons too touchy everywhere, is the viewfinder ,I must have a wrong setting , it is gorgeous but dark ,impossible to manual focus without the help of the automatic green square that is coming when it's in focus ,do you find it dark ? I set the viewfinder ,even at +5 it is still dark, I use only a 28x300 and a 300pf ,maybe that's why
In consideration of your issues with this camera, I really recommend that you return it. In this note and others you seem to be upset, frustrated and unhappy with your choice. That's not a good situation. At this time we have enough frustrations and complications in our lives. Don't let this camera be one of yours.
Hi Maarten, I have been trying to use interval timer in manual mode and my camera (Z6) tells me I can't do this and have to be in P or A mode...Is there a way around this?
That's odd - that's not one of the restrictions for interval shooting - unless your shutter is at bulb or timer? Otherwise, the exclusions are: focus shift, the self-timer, bracketing, multiple exposures and HDR. However, sometimes the only solution for something that's blocked combined with an unhelpful error is to re-initialize.
Is there an option to use a remote shutter release on the Z6? Thank you.
The free smartphone app can be used to trigger the camera remotely. There is also a cable release: bhpho.to/2WEkHaf (this is a B&H affiliate link, you pay the same low price, I get a small commission).
Hallo geht der rote Pin im Viereck der focusfeldes nicht mit beim verschieben des focusfeldes danke 🙏
Ich weiß ehrlich nicht, was der rote Punkt bedeuten soll.
I do some landscape shoots and long Exposures, is the Z6ii recommended over the Z7ii??
You'll get a lot more landscape detail with the Z7II, slightly better low light response with the Z6II.
Timestamp menu seems incomplete, thanks for the effort on the videos!
Done now, sorry about that. And thanks for the kind words, always nice to be appreciated.
Maarten,
I'm kind of at a loss, so I'm hoping you can help. Here's the deal.
I shoot only video with the Z6--all hand held.
Today I took the Z6 out and shot a bunch of clips at the Ft. Worth Zoo. I was using Rokinon lenses--non-electronic.
Back home reviewing the clips I see several clips with the sensor jelly effect.
Now, I was using both standard vibration reduction and electronic VR--which is something I recall you recommended in your "best settings" Z6 video---am I in error?!?
Could it possibly be that having both these stabilization features on shooting video created a conflict and is caused the jell-o sensor effect??? And yes, I've updated to firmware to 2.10.
Any advice?!?
Yes, it's possible to have stabilization exaggerate the rolling shutter. However, in general, the trick to reducing the effect is to move the camera more slowly.
Sony a7iii user, strictly manual focus hdmi video only (external recorder). I do extensive grading and since Sony is 8bit, I'm considering the Z6 for the 10bit. But seen some issues people have mentioned, such as aliasing (internal sharpening issues), and colors seem to be off when using N-Log (but 'Flat' picture profile colors seem more accurate). Do you know anything regarding these issues? And do you think it's worth the upgrade, going to the 10bit output? Keep up the good reviews!
I'm not sure what results you get from "extensive" grading on the A7 III - I'd recommend you work at finding and creating an in-camera picture profile that delivers the results you want. Although I appreciate this issue, I didn't feel that it had a place in this review and didn't evaluate that. The little bit of shooting I did with NLog did not convince me that it was useful for more than cheating some dynamic range in an extreme lighting situation. I would certainly not use it in regular practice.
I would suggest that Nikon's implementation of log is better than Sony's as the noise floor is lower than SLog2, and much lower than SLog3, although I wouldn't recommend either of those either. With both Sony and Nikon, I find that trying to recover a decent level of saturation from flat and log profiles results in less than optimal colours - however, although I did not compare side-by-side, I thought that Nikon's 10 bit recordings provided better results.
Hope this helps.
I'm not sure why anyone would want colour grading on 8 bit video. In a future firmware update the Z6 will offer 12 bit output to Atomos Ninja.
I agree, and generally recommend videographers with 8-bit devices, particularly those with low bit rates, to create their look in camera and not build a mandatory colour grade into their workflow. I'm looking forward to that upgrade.
Dear Maarten thank you for this thorough review. I have a question concerning the interval set up: does this work in conjunction with auto exposure bracketing? E.g. Every 5 minutes I would like the camera to take 5 exposures (-2/-1/0/1/2)?
Thanks for the kind words. I didn't try that.
Maarten Heilbron thank you for your reply.
@@PK-ql5en always happy to interact with my viewers - if you can take the time to send a comment, the least I can do is acknowledge it.
Sir, I would like to ask compared to Sony A7 iii how Nikon Z6 performs. In overall performance please comment which camera is a better buy.
That depends a great deal on your current camera, as well as your photo/video experience and needs.
Such a great review!
Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.
@@MaartenHeilbron well deserved for a good unbiased review! I just got z6 myself and couldn’t be happier.
Wish you a happy new year Maarten.
@@el.priest6518 Thanks, my best wishes for 2021 for you and yours.
Your review has been very informative to me. I am in the process of buying a Nikon camera and am deciding which one to get. I want to get, what I thought the Z 6. Now, as far as finances go I simply don't want to start with the D3500 and work my way up. This is the reason for the Z 6. You have expressed many flaws about this camera and I wouldn't have known, only thru your video thus I'm very grateful. I have heard others pointing out flaws, as well, now I'm really unsure about this camera. I have read that every camera has it's good and bad points. I simply don't know enough, at this time, to say " yes" this is the one for me. I want to take photos of my Olde English Bulldogge and her pups, photos of my horse standing still and in movement, landscapes, and portraits. I have also seen, yesterday, that Nikon has brought the new D780 Digital camera for 2020 to come out early this spring. (note, news from DCW Digital Camera World.com) This new Nikon D780 is a Hybrid between the best of the digital and mirror-less cameras all in one. I would really appreciate your input to assist me in this endeavourment to select the correct Nikon camera for me. Your explanation of the Nikon Z 6 is great and thank you!!!!!!
Thanks, I appreciate your kind words.
It sounds as if you're overwhelmed by too much information. The D7890 is a big and heavy camera, that likely has more features, functions and cost than you need. There is no perfect camera, and although it sounds good on paper, as always, the devil will be in the details.
An APS-C camera, like the Z6, should be fine.
What are the issues that have your stumbling over your decision?
@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you for your response to my question. Yes, I really do think there comes to a point when a person becomes weighed down with the information that they seek to make the very best purchase that can be made. I'm finding out more and more that there is no perfect camera. OH, CRAP !! you wouldn't think that with the prices for cameras and lenses alike. I'm not flushed with money and want to get the very best for what I have. It's mostly technical things within the camera (Z6) that seem to be giving me the reservations Also the fact that it only has one card slot. What happens if you're shooting say a wedding and this card defaults on you. The recovery of movement for this camera to focus on is what seems to be quite slow. In photoshoots of animals, you often don't get but a split second for a camera to readjust itself
@@elizabethgardner5950 I would not worry about the dual card slots - but I would buy a good quality card and treat it well (format it regularly, etc). Of all the potential points of failure for a camera, the sd card is not more likely to fail than others.
If you want a faster and more reliable autofocus, particularly for animals, do have a look at some recent Sony models (like the A6400 - czcams.com/video/JisbELHAXBM/video.html and specifically czcams.com/video/1xEQkYUyQe0/video.html) - but even there, practice, anticipation and luck play a role in getting the image.
@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you Maarten, I'll have a good look at the Sony Cameras that you have put links to and will get back to you of what I think. Talk soon, again thanks Elizabeth Gardner
@@elizabethgardner5950 Always happy to help.
Thank you. I learned a lot. Just a quick question. Is there a recording limit when we record video to an external recorder? Does the camera shut down when it gets too hot? Thanks!
That's very kind of you, thanks for commenting. There is no limit on an external recorder (other than disk space). I did not experience any overheating (it's really a problem with smaller cameras) nor does Nikon indicate that there's an overheating icon in the display. That said, if it's hot in the sun, any camera could overheat.
@@MaartenHeilbron You are welcomed! Thanks for the insights. Looks like I'm quite drawn to this camera now. :)
Always my pleasure. That sounds reasonable.
Can we use this z6 on type c card reader using sd card slot?
XQD and SD cards are incompatible, so in a word “no”.
Your tutorial is wonderful!
Can you please help me to understand how to make iMovie with pictures from Z 6 not as grainy?
I tried to downsize pixels, but it doesn't work...
And no one knows how to fix it.
I make short videos for Real Estate with pictures I take.
Pictures come out very clear and nice, but in the video it is so grainy...
Thank you!
Thanks, but it's really a review - however, it's nice to know that it's a dual purpose.
I'm not sure why your video is grainy. Have you watched my video tips video (it is a tutorial) for the Z7 ( which is just about identical) czcams.com/video/HamkDcFqlAo/video.html
It may be that the situation you're shooting doesn't have enough light, so you may wish to use a faster lens, or use lighting to improve the quality of the image. Stills have much more flexibility than video.
Hi fellow is this camera and the 24/70/f4 lense any good for the Milky Way shots
I don't know the specifics of astro photography, and I didn't try that.. But this camera has a wide range of features and depending on the lens, I'm positive it can handle any situation or need.
Great review as always, I agree i think we need to start collecting and sending better bobbleheads for Maarten to use. Of all the choices in Hawaii? Must have been on sale at ABC store :) At least a girlfriend showed up later.
I appreciate the kind words, and am laughing about my Hawaiian dancers. The kitchiness didn't strike me until I was doing finishing touches. I've retired both. But yes, if you see any good solar power figures, I'd love to add them to the collection. And yes, ABC store - how are there so many of them?
Awsome Review!!!
Thanks! Always nice to read kind words from a viewer.
Great review as always. I’m thinking of changing my camera from a d500 to the Z6. Unfortunately what’s holding me back is the glass I have are for a crop sensor. Can I still use these on the full frame Z6?
Yes, but you'll be taking photos using and APS-C area of the sensor, so a lower resolution.
I shoot in dx with FX tenses sometimes to get closer the resolution is the same nearly
@@jeromeThailande Cropping the FX images would provide the same result.
@@MaartenHeilbron I made a test yesterday for fine tuning my new lens 300 pf ,the definition was better in DX than cropping (with the camera at least ,maybe on the computer it's different)
@@jeromeThailande Thanks for the update.
Great review !! It seems the FTZ adapter with the Nikon is causing some problems with lens and tripod with the ARCA plate, and need to be redesign. Are you aware of this concern ? Thanks.
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. I had the adapter with the Z7, but didn't use it much, and didn't try it with anything other than my Manfrotto quick release plate.
There are about 30 models of L brackets out now that fit the Z cameras with the FTZ mounted so just get one that is designed for it. Kirk, Really Right Stuff, 3 legged Things and many more all make really nice quick release L brackets for Z cameras using, or not, FTZ
Thanks for adding this useful note.